According to the American Heart Association, “the average heart beats 100,000 times and pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood through the body each day.” But some people experience irregular heartbeats. Some heartbeats may occur too fast, too slow, or intermittently. This is known as a condition called arrythmia.

5 Types of Arrhythmia

Although not an exhaustive list, below are several common types of arrhythmia. As always, if you sense your heart is not beating properly, schedule an appointment with your Middle Georgia Heart doctor.

Atrial Fibrillation, also known as aFib, occurs when your upper heart chambers contract irregularly. This type of arrhythmia is often linked to health issues such as congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, and sleep apnea.

Bradycardia occurs when the heart beats at a slower rate. This type of arrhythmia is interesting because there is no set number on what is considered slow – it depends very much on the age and health of the person.

Premature contractions cause your heart to have an early (and sometimes extra) heartbeat. Although you may feel this extra beat, it is harmless, and no treatment is required.

Tachycardia causes a fast heart rate to occur, more than 100 times per minute. It is not normally linked to heart disease, but rather to certain feelings or actions like anxiety, stress, or exercise.

Ventricular Fibrillation occurs when the lower heart chambers produce irregular, inadequate contractions. Instead of pumping blood, the heart’s chambers quiver.

How Your Middle Georgia Heart Doctors Can Help

Arrythmia can present mild to severe health issues. Our doctors can accurately diagnose your condition and discuss a treatment plan if necessary. Treating arrythmia as soon as possible is important to avoid other life-threatening diseases. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate heart doctors: 478-207-5224.